What are the different types of cholesterol?
Cholesterol comes in a variety of forms. Not all types of cholesterol are harmful. It's important to understand the different roles of cholesterol in the body.
- Lipoproteins
- Lipoproteins carry cholesterol and other fats through the blood vessels to various parts of the body to be used, stored or removed. There are several types of lipoproteins. Here are the most important ones for you to know.
- HDL Cholesterol
- High Density Lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol is sometimes known as "good" cholesterol. HDL cholesterol helps to carry cholesterol away from the arteries and back to the liver where it is processed and removed.
- LDL Cholesterol
- Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol is sometimes referred to as "bad" cholesterol. Too much LDL cholesterol may leave deposits (plaque) on the lining of arteries, causing blockages and leading to cardiovascular disease.
- Triglycerides
- Triglycerides (TG) are another type of fatty substance in the blood. High levels of triglycerides can be harmful.